Coonawarra vignerons hit the road again

One of Australia's most popular and longest-running wine events hits the road again. For the 23rd time.

The 2026 Coonawarra Wine Tasting Roadshow will bring the flavours and stories of Coonawarra to wine lovers across the country, from a spring Sydney Harbour wine cruise and an inner-city tasting with panoramic Melbourne skyline views, to a relaxed beachfront afternoon on the Sunshine Coast.

Backed by a close-knit community of passionate producers - from multi-generational family wineries to innovative new players - the Roadshow continues to champion the depth, diversity, and distinction of medium-bodied Coonawarra wines.

Emma Raidis from Raidis Estate (above) says the Roadshow is one of the highlights of the year for Coonawarra producers.

"We love the Coonawarra Roadshow because it's about so much more than pouring wine," she says.

"It's about meeting people face-to-face, sharing a laugh, telling our family's story and showing why we're so passionate about Coonawarra.

"Seeing the enthusiasm people have for our region reminds us why we do what we do, and we always leave with new friendships and great memories."

Tickets include event entry, souvenir Riedel wne glass, three hours of unlimited wine tastings, complimentary food offerings and the opportunity to meet the makers  

You'll find all the details here: https://coonawarra.org/coonawarra-wine-tasting-roadshow-2026/

Coonawarra vignerons gear up to hit the road

Coonawarra is not the easiest of wine regions to get to, so its vignerons will be hitting Australia's capital cities next month to show off their latest releases - and some older gems. 

The Coonawarra Wine Tasting Roadshow will be held in five capital cities with up to 30 Coonawarra producers jetting around the country. 

To be presented over two weeks in August, the tour will include tasting events in Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. But not Hobart this time around. 

“Coonawarra is synonymous with premium red wines, and the likes of Wynns Coonawarra, Redman Wines and Katnook Estate are iconic brands who have a rich and long history of wine making in our region," says Coonawarra Vignerons Events and Marketing Officer Heidi Guyett. 

Attendees will be spoilt for choice with anywhere between 100 and 190 wines featuring on the wine lists at the different events with a range of varieties and styles up for tasting, including a selection of Coonawarra’s white varieties.

“The cool climatic conditions of the Coonawarra wine region make for outstanding white wines that are crisp and aromatic. From riesling to chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and more - there will be something for every wine lover."

In most cases the wines will be poured by by either the winemaker or owners and family members of the brand - Sam Brand from Brand & Sons (above).

“The wineries of Coonawarra really embrace the opportunity to present their product to a national audience of consumers and trade in their home states," says Guyett. 

"They particularly love the opportunity to meet their customers first-hand, to build on relationships and to make new ones."

Long-time roadshow presenter attendee Brian ‘Prof’ Lynn of Majella has been exhibiting at Coonawarra Cellar Door in the City events for over two decades.

“The Coonawarra Roadshow is a highlight in the event calendar for the Coonawarra wine industry," he says . 

"It is an institution of wine promotion for our region and the consumers [and we] just love it.” 

Wineries are encouraged to bring along a mystery bottle, typically a back vintage or museum wine, to demonstrate the age-ability of Coonawarra reds.

The dates are: 

ADELAIDE The National Wine Centre – Friday, August 11 – 27 Wineries

PERTH Aloft Rooftop – Sunday, August 13 – 15 Wineries

MELBOURNE  The Pavilion at the Arts Centre Melbourne – Wednesday, August 16 – 30 Wineries

SYDNEY Sydney Masonic Centre - Friday, August 18 – 24 Wineries

BRISBANE The Calile Hotel - Sunday, August 20 – 22 Wineries

Tickets are on sale now at www.coonawarra.org